"I'll fly out to Dortmund" - Steven Gerrard makes incredible claim on Liverpool's pursuit of Jude Bellingham

Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard claims Jude Bellingham is an 'obvious signing' for Liverpool as the England international continues to attract interest from several other European giants.

Bellingham is one of Jurgen Klopp's long-term transfer targets as the Reds look to revamp their engine room, but the 19-year-old is reportedly also being tracked by Real Madrid and Manchester City, among others.

Speaking to BT Sport ahead of Liverpool's Premier League clash against Chelsea, Gerrard lavished praise on the Borussia Dortmund midfielder. As cited by Anfield Watch's Twitter account, the former Reds skipper offered to fly out to Germany and take the sought-after midfielder out for a 'nice dinner' to convince him to move to Anfield.

"The obvious signing for Liverpool is Bellingham. Liverpool lack a runner number 8 who can get you a goal, the legs - he ticks a lot of boxes.

"I am sure Jude Bellingham is bright enough to look at Liverpool, who have one of the top five managers in the world. They are building a new stand, they have world-class facilities.

"I want Jude Bellingham at Liverpool. I'll fly out to Dortmund and take him out for a nice dinner! I think it's important to stay in England to continue his growth and development. Just get him to send his diary to me!"

ANFIELD WATCH VERDICT

Jude Bellingham is one of the most wanted players in world football and with Borussia Dortmund seemingly resigned to his departure this summer, Liverpool must do everything possible to snap up the England international. Gerrard's claims will only make him feel more wanted, with the young midfielder naming the former Liverpool captain as one of his heroes.

Real Madrid and Manchester City could probably offer him a bigger financial package, but at Liverpool, Bellingham could have the chance to inherit his idol's iconic #8 shirt this summer and follow in his footsteps.